Together before unity

Long before Becoming One was even in our minds, members of both Congregations were already sharing experiences, meetings, joint activities… We were aware that we had the same foundress and we started recognising our similarities.

In this photogallery, we share some of our stories together.

Union conversations started in the 80 with Sisters Noni Mitchell, IBVM, Maria Michael Pelli, CJ, and Eleanor Holland, IBVM.
Also in the 80s, the sisters were already having contacts. In this picture, Victoria Ripa, CJ, and Ana Garrigues, IBVM, during a formation meeting in Loyola, Spain.
In 1993, Cecilia O’Dwyer and Jean Okroi, both members of the IBVM General Leadership at the time, assisted to the CJ General Congregation. In the picture, Jean with Annunciata and Maria Michael, both CJ, after Annunciata’s election.
In 1991, Julie Stapleton, Ibvm from USA, spent a year in Slovakia with CJ sisters. IN the picture, with Anne Hyzy and Sr. Helenka
Anne Hizzy, ibvm, during the time she spent in Prešov, Slovakia, living with CJ sisters, in 1991.
In 1995, a “Mary Ward Team” was sent to Tanzania. A joint project of both congregations to work on the refugee camps. In the picture: Noelle Corscadden (IBVM), Julita Kochattomil (CJ), Malia Katala (IBVM), Elaine Andrade (CJ), Ann Manuel (IBVM at that time), and Judy Illig (IBVM).
Helen Cameroon, IBVM from Canada, visiting CJ friends, on the late 90s.
In 2009, representatives of both branches celebrated together the 400 years of Mary Ward in Rome.
IBVMs from Australia visiting Prague in 2018.
In 2015, IBVM and CJ theologians met in Rome.
in 1993, sisters from one of our congregations assisted for first time to the General Congregation of the other one. Cecilia O’Dwyer with Bernardette in CJ General Congregation in 1993.

Registered Address

IBVM General House. Via Massaua, 3, 00162 Rome, Italy || CJ General House. Via Nomentana, 250, 00162 Rome, Italy